Congestion, or stuffy nose, occurs when the lining of the respiratory tract becomes swollen due to inflamed blood vessels. Congestion interferes with hearing, speech and sleep and is usually caused by respiratory tract infections, allergies, abnormal tissue growth, certain medications or pregnancy. Steam inhalation, raising the head while sleeping, humidifiers and over-the-counter saline and decongestant drops may provide relief. Certain supplements such as zinc may also help manage congestion. Consult a doctor if the condition does not improve in a couple of days.
About Zinc
Zinc is a trace element found in foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, dairy, legumes and beans. It plays an important role in growth and reproduction, immune function, blood clotting and insulin production. The National Institute of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements recommends 2 to 13 mg of zinc per day, depending on your age and overall health. Apart from diet, you can also obtain zinc from synthetic and natural supplements available at most pharmacies. Your doctor may also recommend zinc supplements to treat a variety of conditions including acne, infections, ulcers, ADHD and Wilson's disease.
Expert Opinion
Intranasal administration of zinc may help relieve symptoms of the common cold which may lead to congestion, according to a study in the June 2009 issue of the "Journal of Primary Health Care." The authors of the study, however, point out that although zinc may be an effective alternative to antibiotics, it is important to consider the side effects associated with the supplement before using it. Another study in the December 2009 issue of the "Iranian Journal of Pediatrics" reveals that zinc supplements decrease the incidence and severity of common cold in children and may in turn, help prevent congestion. The University of Maryland Medical Center also recommends zinc nasal sprays to treat congestion associated with sinusitis and common cold.
Adverse Reactions
Zinc supplements are generally safe to use. However, side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and upset stomach may sometimes occur. More severe reactions including anemia, hallucination and loss of muscle co-ordination have been reported rarely. Zinc nasal sprays may cause anosmia, or loss of ability to recognize odors. The supplements may also interfere with certain blood pressure, diabetes and pain medications as well as antibiotics.
Precautions
You do not need a prescription to buy zinc supplements. However, it is important to discuss your pre-existing conditions and other medications with a doctor before taking zinc supplements for nasal congestion.
References
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Zinc
- "Journal of Primary Health Care"; Is Intranasal Zinc Effective and Safe for the Common Cold?; Hubert D'Cruze, et al.; June 2009
- "Iranian Journal of Pediatrics"; Effects of Zinc Supplementation in Occurrence and Duration of Common Cold in School Aged Children during Cold Season: a DoubleBlind PlaceboControlled Trial; Rahim Vakili, et al.; December 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Zinc
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Sinusitis
Member Comments